Patient and caretaker satisfaction with the PureWick system

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Gerontology
• Patient Care

Background:

• Urinary incontinence (UI) affects a significant patient population, necessitating effective and comfortable management solutions.
• Traditional methods like adult diapers can present challenges in terms of comfort, skin integrity, and user experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate patient and caregiver satisfaction with the BD PureWick System for non-invasive urinary incontinence management in an outpatient setting.
• To compare the PureWick System's efficacy and user experience against traditional adult diapers.

Main Methods:

• An online questionnaire was administered to 119 patients and 205 caregivers using the PureWick System.
• Data collected included demographics, satisfaction levels, perceived benefits, and comparative claims using Likert scales and open-ended questions.
• Statistical analysis, including independent samples t-tests and z-tests, was used to compare patient and caregiver responses.

Main Results:

• > 80% of users reported satisfaction, comfort, and likelihood to recommend the PureWick System, despite higher costs compared to diapers.
• Caregivers found the system easier to use and associated it with fewer perceived urinary tract infections (UTIs) and skin infections compared to patients.
• Key benefits included ease of setup, emptying, cleaning, and reduced need to leave bed for toileting, with over 20% reporting sleep benefits.

Conclusions:

• The PureWick System provides a convenient and satisfactory alternative for outpatient urinary incontinence management.
• Both patients and caregivers reported higher satisfaction and preferred the PureWick System over adult diapers.
• The system demonstrates potential for improved comfort, sleep, and reduced skin issues in UI management.